‘Big talent in Brazilian football’: 10 things to know about Estêvão Willian

At just 18 years old, young Brazilian phenom, Estêvão Willian is already turning heads and is hailed as Brazil’s next football talent.

Estêvão, nicknamed “Messinho” for his brilliant movement and keen vision, has been lauded worldwide for his electrifying performances, and a move to Chelsea is set to catapult him onto the international scene.

The versatile winger known for explosive dribbling, close control, and finishing embodies a blend of flair and effectiveness.

He’s already following in the footsteps of Neymar, who called him “the big talent in Brazilian football”

With global media tracking his every move, from U‑17 dominance to his emotional Palmeiras farewell where they were defeated by Chelsea at the 2025 Club World Cup. He is certainly a player to watch as he prepares for his Premier League journey.

Here are 10 things to know about Estêvão Willian;

Full Name and Background

Estêvão Willian Almeida de Oliveira Gonçalves was born on April 24, 2007, in Franca, São Paulo, and currently plays as a winger and is regarded as one of Brazil’s most exciting young talents.

Early Development

He joined Cruzeiro’s youth academy in 2017, where he quickly made a name for his dribbling and creativity at just 10 years old.

Nickname ‘Messinho’

Dubbed “Messinho” for his dribbling style and vision reminiscent of Messi, he’s also been compared to Neymar. Yet, Estêvão prefers to be recognised by name.

Signing Nike Contract

In 2018, Estêvão signed with Nike, becoming the youngest Brazilian ever to do so, beating the record previously held by Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.

Upward Move to Palmeiras

The Brazilian transferred to Palmeiras’ academy in May 2021 and went on to win multiple youth championships including the Campeonato Paulista and Copa do Brasil at U‑17 level.

Hat-trick Hero

In October 2023, Estêvão announced himself by scoring a hat-trick in the Campeonato Brasileiro U‑17 final, delivering a 3–0 victory over São Paulo and securing back-to-back titles.

Senior Debut Milestone

He made his professional debut for Palmeiras on December 7, 2023, at 16 years and 8 months, becoming the club’s fourth-youngest debutant.

First Senior Goal

On April 24, 2024, Estêvão scored his first senior goal, courtesy of a stunning strike in a 3–1 Copa Libertadores win over Liverpool (UY), thus, becoming one of the youngest to score in the competition.

Landmark Chelsea Signing

In June 2024, Chelsea secured his signature in a deal worth around £29 million plus add-ons—set to join the club officially after his 18th birthday in July 2025.

Senior International Debut

Estêvão made his Brazil senior team debut on September 6, 2024, coming on against Ecuador in World Cup qualifiers.

At just 17 years and 135 days, Estêvão became the second-youngest player of the 21st century to debut for Brazil’s senior team, surpassed only by Real Madrid’s Endrick.

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